Computing Security
...While Traveling
If you use a computer or other electronic device while traveling there
are unique security concerns you should be familiar with.
Physical Security of Laptop Computers
Theft
Laptop computers are a highly sought after targets by thieves. Successful thieves know what a laptop carrying case looks like. You may want to remove external tags or labels that help identify your carrying case as containing a laptop. Always keep an eye on your laptop in airports, motels and convention areas. The airport security checkpoint is a common place for a thief to attempt to steal a laptop. Before you place a laptop on the X-ray machine's conveyor belt, make sure you have a clear line of sight and that no one is blocking your path to the discharge of the X-ray machine. A common ploy involves causing a delay at the security checkpoint after you've placed your laptop on the conveyor belt. As your laptop computer exits the X-ray machine, an accomplice takes off with it while you're distracted.
Loss of Data
The monetary loss of a laptop computer could be overshadowed by the loss of data it contained. Any loss of personal identity information needs to be reported promptly. It is possible that any electronic users accounts you used on the laptop could be compromised. This could include, online banking, shopping at online stores or using remote access to information technology services. You should report the theft to the company who issued the account and change the passwords on these accounts as quickly as possible. Over the next few months you should be on the lookout for suspicious activity on your accounts.
Power, Telephone and Network Outlets
Be sure you understand the purpose of any outlets you plug your computer into. Power and telephone adapters will usually be required when traveling outside of the United States. Pluging into the wrong type of telephone or network outlet can cause damage to your laptop that may render it unusable. When connecting your laptop's modem to a telephone line you should confirm it is a standard analog telephone line. A digital telephone line will damage your computer. Your network port should only be plugged into a standard Ethernet port with a CAT-5 patch cable.
Remote Access Security
SOU Configured Laptops
If you are using a laptop configured by SOU Information Technology (IT) it will already be set up to security best practices; installed anti-virus and anti-spyware software, automatic updates for operating system security updates and security software and properly configured firewall software.
Public and Other Computers
If you must use a computer that doesn't belong to you; a public computer such as at a library or Internet Cafe, you can not guarantee the security best practices have been followed. In this situation you should limit your access to that which is strictly necessary. It would be possible for a compromised computer to capture your account credentials and any data communicated to you by any information system you access.
Hotels and Other Wireless/Wired Internet Services
The same cautions apply to using a wired or wireless service at a hotel, coffee house, Internet Cafe, public library or other business locations. You do know what steps the service provider has taken to ensure secure use of their Internet service.
